A Canadian privacy investigation exposed TikTok’s practices of collecting sensitive information from children. This raises critical questions about online safety!
A recent investigation in Canada has uncovered some pretty concerning information: it turns out TikTok has been collecting sensitive information from kids, which is a big no-no.
The probe was led by federal Privacy Commissioner Philippe Dufresne and his provincial counterparts from Quebec, Alberta, and British Columbia. The investigation found that even though TikTok's policy says users have to be at least 13, younger kids have been getting onto the platform and sharing their personal data anyway.
What the investigators found was that TikTok's age verification system is a sham; it's just not good enough, so underage users can easily create accounts. The app isn't just letting them in; it's actively gathering and using their information to hit them with targeted ads and content. These actions are a major violation of Canadian privacy laws.
Additionally, the platform was found to collect and utilize children's data for targeted advertising and content recommendations. These practices are deemed inappropriate under Canadian privacy laws.
In response to these findings, TikTok has agreed to enhance its age-assurance mechanisms and improve transparency regarding data collection and usage. The company has committed to implementing more robust age verification processes and providing clearer information to users, especially minors, about how their data is being used.
This development adds to the growing global scrutiny of TikTok's data practices. In the United States, the Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against TikTok, alleging violations of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) by allowing children under 13 to access the platform and collect their personal information without parental consent.
The Canadian investigation underscores the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect children's privacy online.
As social media platforms continue to play a significant role in children's lives, ensuring their safety and privacy remains a critical concern for regulators worldwide.
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